Gritty is in the early stages of his growth as a mascot, but the sky is the limit, and his trajectory is clear. He is an underdog that has broken new ground, and garnered throngs of adoring fans, but Gritty is not generational today. He will be shortly, but he’s not there yet.
Even Harvey the hound had a brief glimpse of fame after losing his tongue…Staying power is what makes legends.
Technically speaking, Gritty lacks the dance moves that made the Fantatic a star. He also lacks the charisma of Youppi, or the athleticism of Benny the Bull. What he does have - is a unique voice, an open platform, and the hopes of a generation. The thing is, while he might not match legends of the past in skill; we often forget that Gritty is a rookie. To even be in the conversation with these names is a feat unto itself.
In arena, (if you can look past the obvious visual differences) Gritty more closely resembles the antics of the San Diego Chicken than he does his Philadelphia forefathers. He has brought an edge back to Philadelphia. The playful games of The Fanatic pushed aside in favour of something a little more sinister. In a different era, these talents alone would have him in the generational conversation. These days, he merely stands on the shoulders of giants.
Gritty is also exploring his online persona as much as his in-arena voice. His opening stanza “It me. #Gritty” has already become part of the modern zeitgeist and is a clear indication that he is blazing new trails for mascots as well as fans. Gritty is changing the game, and adapting it to today’s lifestyle. That, might be enough to secure his status as generational to some onlookers.
What Gritty has done so far is nothing short of incredible. His fame, and notoriety are well deserved, but his fundamentals, while solid, are not generational. He’s growing, and he’s not done yet. He’ll get there.
The biggest risk to Gritty’s legacy, is Gritty himself. Who can sustain such a torrid pace? To steal a line from Hunter Thompson; “we were riding the crest of a high and beautiful wave…” Whether he crashes and burns in a glorious wreck, or remains established for decades to come; Gritty is a hallmark of today’s youth.
But, is he a generational talent? Not until he puts in the time.